3.1.2 Choice of Mining Method
There are two types of mining: open-pit mining and underground mining.
In open-pit mining, a huge hole is mined in tiers.
This type of mining is appropriate when the deposit is very extensive, located near the surface and covered with a relatively shallow layer of overburden or barren rock.
It is the most cost-effective mining method.
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If the deposit is deep-seated, underground mining is the method of choice.
A highly structured network of drifts is dug in order to reach the orebody. The networks are often dozens of kilometres long.
Underground mining is more expensive than open-pit mining and requires more complex management and machinery.
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